5 simple rules that will help you avoid skin and hair damage this Holi

No scrubbing

Holi is by far one of the most fun festivals in India—it’s loaded with an abundance of colour and everyone’s up for a fun morning (that could even go on till the evening) and public holiday. However, the one thing we tend to forget about amongst all the fun is all the skin damage the excessive sun and colour exposure can cause. Celebrity dermatologist Dr Harshna Bijlani sets the record straight on what to do before you play and how to control the damage after.

BEFORE YOU PLAYCover upThe lesser skin you show, the better. Make sure you’re wearing long sleeves and preferably leggings or full length bottoms to reduce sun and colour exposure. “Shorts are still okay as people mostly put colour on the upper body,” says Dr Harshna Bijlani. “Full sleeves work best, it doesn’t have to be thick fabric, it should just cover your skin. Wear a cap with your hair tucked inside it so your scalp is protected from the colour and sunglasses to stop it from getting in your eyes. You could even braid your hair if you don’t want to put it up.”

Layer rightLoad up on the sunscreen. Most people usually forget about the sun amidst all the water and the colours. “Instead of using coconut oil on your body, I’d suggest using a thick sunscreen. Sure, the colour may come out quicker [if you use oil] but you’re going to come back more tanned. Use a creamy sunscreen, not the spray one. If you’re going to be out all day, it’ll only last for two-three hours. One shot glass of sunscreen all over your body is the quantity you should use.”

This is also the one day you should embrace sticky hair. “For your hair, make it as greasy as possible so the colour just comes off and doesn’t settle in. You can use a cold-pressed almond oil, not a very heavy one.” Don’t forget the overlooked areas. “Apply the sunscreen on all exposed parts—behind your neck, ears, on your hands and feet. Also, apply a thick layer of Vaseline or a lip balm with SPF, that’s perfect. Playing with herbal organic colours is the best as they come off very easily.” Make sure you apply nail polish on your nails and on the skin around it to avoid shaded hands for days.

Be safe“Avoid getting any peels or laser done a week before Holi as your skin becomes more sun sensitive and the colour can cause irritation. Facials are fine, but nothing too harsh.”

AFTER YOU’RE DONEStick to the basicsOnce you’re done playing, wash off with a lot of water and soap first, gently cleaning with your hands alone. “The minute you finish playing, shower with a regular body wash or soap. Shampoo your hair and don’t skip conditioner because you need to hydrate the hair. If the colour’s still there, at this stage, you can use oil on your body. Use it post playing as you won’t be exposed to the sun then. When you pat the oil out, you’ll see colour come off on your towel.”

Have patience“People tend to get irritated with the colour and use a loofah and start rubbing it off. Don’t do that. Holi colour will eventually go, even if it takes three-four days. Scrubbing will only irritate the skin.” If you’re opting for home remedies to get rid of the colour like gram flour, yoghurt or lemon, “I’d suggest adding a capsule of vitamin E oil to any home concoctions to keep your skin hydrated. The colour will go by itself in a few days anyway so don’t get worked up.”

If you do observe any adverse reactions after playing, it’s best to consult your dermatologist